Careers Advice
Careers Advice: Find Your Next Step in Work or Training
If you want a better job, a fresh start, or more confidence in your options, you are in the right place.
This careers advice guide will help you:
- choose a realistic next step
- meet entry requirements for jobs and courses
- apply for apprenticeships
- access funded training (Level 2, Level 3 and Skills Bootcamps)
- write a CV that gets interviews
You do not need to have everything figured out. Start with one route below and build from there.
Start here: choose the route that fits your goal
- If you want to earn while you learn: apprenticeships
- If you want funded training: free Level 2, free Level 3, or Skills Bootcamps
- If you want university as an adult: Access to Higher Education
- If you need help applying for jobs: CV writing and templates
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are paid jobs with training. You earn a wage while you learn skills for a real role.
Use these guides to get started:
- Apprenticeships in the UK (complete guide)
- How to apply for an apprenticeship (step by step)
- Apprenticeship entry requirements
- Apprenticeships without GCSEs
If you are worried you are “not qualified enough”, you are not alone. Many people start by building English and maths first.
Free funded courses in England
Many people can access funded training where the course fees are covered fully or partly.
Start with the hub, then choose the route that fits your situation:
Free Level 2 courses (Adult Skills Fund routes)
Level 2 is roughly GCSE level. It is often the best starting point if you want to build confidence or meet entry requirements.
Free Level 3 courses
Level 3 is roughly A-level level. It can help you move into higher-skilled roles and improve progression.
Skills Bootcamps (fast job-focused training)
Skills Bootcamps are short courses designed to help you build job-ready skills quickly. Many are free for learners.
English and maths (Functional Skills Level 2)
English and maths are common requirements for jobs, apprenticeships and further study. If you did not pass GCSE English or maths, Functional Skills Level 2 is a widely accepted alternative.
University routes for adults
If your goal is university and you do not have A-levels, an Access to Higher Education course may be the right route.
Paying for Level 3 and Access courses
If you do not qualify for free funding, an Advanced Learner Loan may help cover course fees.
CV and job application support
A good CV makes it easier to get interviews. You do not need a perfect CV. You need a clear CV that matches the job.
Digital skills for work and learning
If online forms, email, or learning platforms feel difficult, building basic digital skills can help quickly.
Not sure what to choose?
If you feel stuck, start with one of these:
- If you need English or maths: start with Functional Skills Level 2.
- If you want a job route and income: explore apprenticeships.
- If you want quick training for work: explore Skills Bootcamps.
- If you want a qualification that improves progression: explore free Level 2 or Level 3 courses.
- If you want university: explore Access to Higher Education.
Pick one direction, take one step, and build momentum from there.
Frequently asked questions
What if I do not have GCSE English or maths?
Many jobs and courses accept Functional Skills Level 2 as an alternative. Start with Functional Skills English Level 2 and Functional Skills Maths Level 2.
What is the best option if I want a job quickly?
Skills Bootcamps can be a fast route into job-focused training. Apprenticeships can also lead to strong job outcomes while you earn a wage.
Can I train while working?
Often yes. Many Level 2 and Level 3 courses and Skills Bootcamps offer part-time, evening, online or blended options.
Next steps
- Choose one route above and read the guide.
- Write or update your CV using a template.
- Make one application (course, apprenticeship, or job) to build momentum.
Progress is possible, even if you feel behind right now. Start where you are and take one step.